Olivia Christine Childree, known affectionately as Christine to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2025, at her home in Clayhatchee, Alabama. Born on June 16, 1971, in Dale County, Alabama, Christine lived a life filled with laughter, love, and the simple joys of the natural world.
Christine was the beloved mother of two daughters, Katie Santamaria (Pablo) and Crystal Cheyenne Harris (Eric Johnson). She reveled in her role as a grandmother to Xander, Jasper, and Syrina Childree; Conner and Isla Melancon; and Joanna and Johnathan Santamaria. Her spirit will live on through the stories and memories she created with her grandchildren, whom she adored.
Survived by her brothers, Donnie, Danny, and Jessie Childree, and sisters, Mary Smith (Otis), Paula, Teresa, Samantha, Melinda Childree (Cody Galloway), and Jennifer Morris, Christine’s presence was a cornerstone of the Childree family. Her parents, Donnie G. Childree and Patricia A. Glover Childree, preceded her in death. Christine also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in her heart.
Known for her quick wit and spirited nature, Christine was the life of any gathering. Her laughter was infectious, and her sense of humor brought joy to all who knew her. Despite being a self-proclaimed homebody, Christine relished her time outdoors. She had a green thumb and was happiest when she was tending to her yard, a haven for family and friends alike.
An avid fisherwoman, Christine could often be found by the water’s edge, rod in hand, waiting for the next big catch. Her love for the outdoors extended to her fascination with arrowhead hunting, a pastime that married her appreciation for history with her passion for exploration.
The night sky held a special allure for Christine, who loved astrology. She found solace in the stars and planets, and her curiosity about the cosmos was a testament to her lifelong desire to learn and grow. Her family will fondly remember nights spent under the stars, with Christine pointing out constellations and sharing stories of the universe.
Christine’s legacy is one of laughter, resilience, and an unquenchable zest for life. She was a woman who embraced the world with open arms and found beauty in the simple things. Her spirit, humor, and love of life will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.
As we bid farewell to Christine, we celebrate a life well-lived life that touched so many with its warmth and brightness. Her memory will continue to be a guiding light for her family, a reminder of the joy and beauty that can be found in every day.
The Childree family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love and support they have received during this time. Christine’s life was a gift to us all, and though she has left this earthly realm, her spirit remains, as vibrant and enduring as the stars she so loved to gaze upon.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, January 30, 2025 at 4:30 pm in the Belle Meade Chapel at Sunset Memorial Park with Chaplain Charles Goldsmith officiating.
Frances Ernestine Manning, passed away January 27, 2025, at the age of 64. Born on October 7, 1960, in Dothan, Alabama, Frances was a woman whose generosity knew no bounds and whose heart was as vast as the sky.
Frances, affectionately known as Nae Nae by her cherished grandchildren, was a woman who lived a life filled with melody, faith, and an unwavering commitment to her loved ones. From her early days in Frith Hill Community Church to her devoted membership at Shiloh Free Will Baptist in Columbia, her spiritual journey was a testament to her deep-rooted faith. Frances had a natural talent for music, as she effortlessly learned to play the piano by ear. Her musical gifts were recognized early when she was crowned Little Miss Slocomb, a title that brought joy to her and her family.
The daughter of the late James Ernest Ray and Sarah Miles Fowler, Frances grew up surrounded by a loving family that would continue to grow and flourish throughout her life. She was a beloved sister to Ernest David Ray, Sara Ann Latham, Patricia McDonough, and James Ronald Ray. Frances was a guiding light to her children that preceded her in death, David LaVon Manning and Ashley Nicole Manning, and a pillar of strength to her surviving husband, Durwood Manning. Together, they created a legacy of love that extended to her sons, Sean (McKenzie) Manning and Clint Manning.
Frances’s life was a beautiful tapestry woven with the laughter and smiles of her grandchildren: Ashton LaVon Manning, Samantha Jo Tice, Jace Wesley Manning, Skylar Zane Manning, Nevaeh David Manning, Ayden Ashley-Marie Manning, Kayden Clint Manning, and Starla Nicole Brock. Each grandchild held a special place in her heart, and she dedicated herself to making memories that would last a lifetime.
Her love for Christian and Country music was only surpassed by the love she had for her family. Frances’s life was a symphony of caring gestures, warm embraces, and selfless acts that touched the hearts of many. Her generosity extended beyond her family, reaching out to numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends who were all blessed to know her.
Frances Manning lived a life that exemplified the very essence of generosity, love, and kindness. She was a woman who saw the good in others and inspired those around her to embrace their own capacity for compassion. Her spirit was a guiding light that encouraged us all to live with purpose, to cherish every moment, and to love without reservation.
A celebration of Frances’ life will be held at 2 PM, Sunday, February 2, 2025 from the Chapel of Ward Wilson Funeral Home with Brother James Welch officiating. Burial will follow in the Frith Hill Cemetery with Ward Wilson Funeral Home directing. The family will receive friends from 4 PM until 6 PM, Saturday, February 1, 2025 at Ward Wilson Funeral Home.
Joseph Quirantes Jr., known affectionately as Joe to his friends and loved ones, passed away peacefully on January 27, 2025, in Dothan, Alabama, at the age of 84. Born on November 16, 1940, in the vibrant state of Hawaii, Joe was a man whose warmth and intelligence left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew him.
Joe is survived by his adoring wife of 27 years, Nichole Quirantes, who stood by him through life’s many adventures and challenges. He was a proud father to his son, Charles Duncan, and his daughter, Nena Jacobs. Joe’s legacy continues through his beloved grandchildren, Elizabeth Williams, Jessi Duncan, Andrea Sanborn, Aspen Hall, Emma Duncan, John Duncan, and Caden Duncan, as well as many cherished great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Quirantes Sr. and Dorothy Quirantes, who instilled in him the values of love and family that he carried throughout his life.
Joe’s pursuit of knowledge led him to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, a field that captivated his mind and fueled his career. He spent the majority of his professional life as a programming analyst, a role in which he excelled and brought significant contributions to the industry. Though he briefly ventured into commercial fishing, his passion for computers drew him back to the tech world. Joe’s career took him to various places, including Portland, Oregon, and Stockton, California, before he eventually settled in Dothan in 2005, after moving from Panama City.
His dedication to service was evident through his eight years in the Army Reserve, a commitment that showcased his love for his country and community. Joe’s journey began in the beautiful landscapes of Hawaii, continued as he moved to Santa Clara at the age of 19, and finally found him embracing the warmth of Dothan, where he spent his final years.
Beyond his professional and service accomplishments, Joe was known for his deep love for all things related to computers, his admiration for Spiderman and Baby Yoda, and his affectionate nature. He was often referred to as a “big teddy bear” by those who knew him best. Joe’s generous spirit was such that he would offer a hug to strangers, believing that sometimes a simple embrace could make all the difference.
Loving, intelligent, and analytical are the words that best describe Joe. His ability to dissect complex problems and devise solutions was matched only by his capacity to love and care for his family. His analytical mind never overshadowed his warm heart, which was always ready to support and comfort those around him.
Joe’s life was a testament to the power of embracing one’s passions and the significance of human connection. His presence was a source of joy and comfort, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A celebration of Joe’s life will take place at 11am on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at Cedar Grove Baptist Church. Friends and family are invited to gather and share memories at the church on Saturday from 10-11 am. In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Joe’s honor to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
As we say farewell to Joseph Quirantes Jr., we celebrate a life well-lived, a journey marked by love, intelligence, and the gentle touch of a man who was never afraid to show his affection. Joe’s memory will continue to inspire and guide us, and his legacy will live on through the lives of his family and the many individuals he touched with his kindness.
Votie Snell Hodges, a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and devoted servant of Christ passed away peacefully on January 24, 2025, at the age of 98. She was preceded in death by her parents Tullis Earl Snell and Mary Dee Pelham Fears, two half-sisters, three stepsisters, and two husbands Donzell Hardy and Glen Alexander Hodges.
Votie is survived by her two daughters Donna Hardy Amick and Jill Hardy Hodges (John) Klosky, four grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren, all of whom she loved deeply and cherished throughout her life.
A faithful member of her community, Votie devoted decades of her life to teaching Sunday school at Calvary Baptist Church, imparting her love for Jesus and her values to countless hearts. Her life was a testament to her selflessness, her unwavering faith, and her dedication to putting others first. She lived humbly, and she embodied the spirit of service every day, offering love, care, and support to all who crossed her path.
Votie’s life was guided by the words of Philippians 1:21: “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Her faith was the foundation of her life, and she faced her passing with the same grace and humility that marked every moment she lived.
A service in honor of Votie will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, February 1, 2025, with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. The service will take place at Calvary Baptist Church in Dothan, Alabama. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Gentiva Hospice, whose care and support brought great comfort during her final days.
Votie’s legacy of love, kindness, and faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She is now at rest with her Savior, where she will forever know peace.
Irene Peluso, a beacon of love and faith, passed away peacefully on January 28, 2025, in Dothan, Alabama, at the age of 92. She was born on August 15, 1932, in Vienna, West Virginia, to the late Louis and Elsie Palmer. Irene’s life was a beautiful tapestry of devotion to her family, her church, and her unwavering faith in God.
Irene grew up in New Brighton, Pennsylvania, where she attended New Brighton High School. After graduation, she contributed to her local community by working at Isaly’s in New Brighton. Her dedication to service extended well beyond her professional life, as she became deeply involved in church outreaches and prayer ministries, embodying the love and compassion she held for others. In 2003, Irene moved to Dothan, where she continued to be an active member of the Dothan Vineyard Church and served at Living Hope Community Center.
She was the wife of Albert Lyle Peluso, who was a teacher, coach and athletic director at New Brighton High School, who preceded her in death. Together, they welcomed their son, Lyle Peluso, who, along with his wife Beverly, blessed Irene with a lineage of love that included her grandchildren Lyle Peluso, Jr. and Deidre Frith, and her great-grandchildren Dayton Peluso, Jillian Peluso, Parker Frith, Campbell Frith, Samuel Peluso and Benjamin Peluso.
Irene was the last surviving sibling of her family, preceded in death by her brothers Kenny, Jimmy, and Leslie Palmer, and her sister, Betty Burdine. The memories and values she shared with them remain a cherished legacy for all who knew the Palmer family.
Those who knew Irene remember her first and foremost as a servant of the Lord. Her faith was the cornerstone of her existence, guiding every action and decision with a sense of purpose and grace. As a homemaker, Irene took great pride in caring for her family, creating a warm and welcoming home that was a sanctuary of love for all who entered.
Described by many as loving, faith-filled, and selfless, Irene’s presence was a source of comfort and strength. Her gentle spirit and kindheartedness were evident in her every interaction, and her unwavering support for her family and friends was a testament to her generous nature.
Irene’s joy was caring for her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Her legacy is one of profound impact, touching the lives of many through her kind deeds and prayerful support. As we bid farewell to this extraordinary woman, we celebrate the enduring footprint she leaves on the hearts of those she loved and served.
As the sun sets on a life so beautifully lived, we take comfort in the knowledge that Irene Anna Peluso has been welcomed into the eternal embrace of her Creator, where she reunites with her cherished husband, her parents, and her siblings. Her spirit, a guiding light for so many, will continue to shine brightly in the memories of those she leaves behind.
A celebration of Irene’s life will be held at 2:00 pm on Sunday, February 2, 2025 at Sunset Funeral Home with her son, Pastor Lyle Peluso officiating. The family will receive friends at 1:00pm. In lieu of flowers, the family request memorial contributions to be made to Living Hope Community Center, P.O. Box 365, Dothan, AL 36302.
